In Western Canada, moulds commonly produce chemical mycotoxins in grains and grain by-products. Over 400 different mycotoxins are known, though not all of them affect pigs. Mould in a sample does not always mean a mycotoxin is present, and mycotoxins do not always show with obvious mould. Temperature and humidity during harvest, oxygen levels during growth, transport, harvest, storage and insects all contribute to mycotoxin production. Pigs are sensitive to mycotoxins and they impact the performance of the animals. Sampling for mycotoxins is difficult as they are not spread uniformly across the grain. Multiple samples from different locations will lead to the most accurate results. The Canadian regulatory guidelines must be followed for consumption of contaminated grains, as different mycotoxins have different detrimental side effects.
Feeding Mycotoxin Contaminated Grain to Swine (full article)
